We are a week away from the publication of a major report into the global loss of nature – the first comprehensive overview for more than a decade about global biodiversity and the contributions of nature to people. The Global Assessment of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services will be considered by representatives of 130 Governments in May.
Sir Robert Watson, Chair of the convening Intergovernmental Panel for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services warns: “The loss of species, ecosystems and genetic diversity is already a global and generational threat to human well-being. Protecting the invaluable contributions of nature to people will be the defining challenge of decades to come.”
The report, to be published on 6 May 2019, is expected to highlight the threat to humans if the devastation of nature continues. “I want people to know that nature is really important, and we shouldn’t destroy it, and it is absolutely essential to food, water and energy security,” said Sir Robert Watson. Some might say that nature is important anyway, not just as a ‘service’ provider for humans.
The arrival of our summer migrants, the cuckoo, swallows and swifts, remind us how globally interlinked we are. Advances in science mean we can now track birds on migration. PJ, The Kings Forest cuckoo, arrived back in Suffolk on 25th April having spent our winter in Angola. Several tagged cuckoos are still making their way through Spain and France. What do cuckoos eat?
Insects?
What has that got to do with Waveney & Blyth Arts?
We launch, in May, Bugs & Blossoms our programme of events exploring, celebrating and promoting action for our plants and insects. See our Bugs & Blossoms page for details of walks, talks, workshops and exhibitions.
The global dimension of the loss of nature can make it feel impossible, as an individual, to make a difference. But Waveney & Blyth Arts likes a challenge. Let’s make our two river valley landscapes, inspiring nature rich places to live and work. What can we, as artists, do to bring people closer to nature, to inspire action and to help reverse the decline in nature locally.
Join us at one or more of our events and share your thoughts and ideas. Let’s bring Bugs & Blossoms back.
